2014 Volvo S60 Sedan/Volvo XC60 SUV Updated

By Bob Nagy on February 19, 2013 4:29 PM

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Set for a full reveal next month in Geneva, the 2014 Volvo S60Sedan and 2014 Volvo XC60SUV have now broken cover in Euro guise to show off what the Swedish-based automaker is calling the most extensive development of existing models in its history. "We have focused on quality and attention to detail in order to give these dynamic models a major boost and sharpen their competitiveness," noted Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President, Product Strategy & Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Car Group. The same update scheme also will be applied to the V60 Wagon, which is not currently part of the U.S. lineup.

The most obvious visual changes to both the Volvo S60 and XC60 are seen up front where new and more expressive headlamps and bolder grille/fascia treatments along with a more sculpted hood on the XC60 gives each greater road presence. Rounding out the exterior revamp are a selection of new wheel designs and more elegantly integrated exhaust finishers. The Volvo's 60's set also offer new Active High Beam Control technology that uses a projector module mechanism in the headlamps that can selectively shade out the portion of the beam to effectively prevent "dazzling" an oncoming driver, thereby eliminating the need to switch between low and high beams.

A similar kind of understated but effective makeover is found inside where a revised color palette, richer fabrics, textile-covered B-pillars, new wood inlays, a recast headliner and silk-metal finish trim add more eye appeal while more deeply bolstered and supportive optional sport seats should curry even greater favor with enthusiasts. So too will the paddle shift levers available on all S60 and XC60 T6 models fitted with a 3-spoke steering wheel. The vehicles also will offer a new Adaptive Digital Display main instrument cluster that allows the driver to select from three different color/readout motifs (Elegance/Eco/Performance) as well as introduce Volvo's new Sensus Connected Touch system.

The latest and most versatile version of the automaker's Sensus Human Machine Interface system, Connected Touch is a fully upgradable package that turns the 7.0-inch center display into a state-of-the-art infrared, beam-scanned touchscreen controller capable of overseeing a car-wide WiFi network. It allows for full-time Internet access (although browsing is restricted while driving) including streaming music, TuneIn Internet Radio, Embedded Connected 3D navigation with real-time traffic/weather features, Google Map and Search even a Free Parking locator.

Volvo sources in America indicate that powertrains and trim levels will carry over unchanged from 2013 for both vehicles. Expect more U.S. specific details and pricing information on the 2014 Volvo S60 and 2014 Volvo XC60 lineups to be released closer to their arrival here this summer.